Required Resources
Read/review the following resources for this activity:
Introduction
Over the eight weeks of the course, you will work on a paper that addresses a current controversial issue. This paper is to be in the form of an argument. You will select a topic, choose an issue related to that topic, thoroughly research both sides of the issue, and then write a paper that supports one side or the other of the issue. Your paper must define the issue, present evidence on both sides of the issue, and then argue that one side is stronger and more persuasive than the other. Your paper must address at least three relevant aspects of the issue. More specific directions for each part of the paper will be found within the specific assignment in the weekly modules.
Here is a brief breakdown of the project so that you can plan your time in the course:
Week
Task
Week 1
Topic Selection
Week 3
Issue Review (both sides)
Week 5
Thesis & Annotated Bibliography (both sides)
Week 7
Argumentative Paper
Instructions
This week, you will choose one of the following topics for your project:
If you want to propose a different topic, you must have the consent of your instructor. When you choose a topic, think of specific issues under that topic that you will explore. Click on the following link for an example:
For the assignment this week, address the following:
Writing Requirements (APA format)
Grading
This activity will be graded using the W1 Course Project Grading Rubric.
Course Outcomes (CO): 6, 7
Due Date: By 11:59 p.m. MT on Sunday
W1 Course Project Grading Rubric – 15 pts W1 Course Project Grading Rubric – 15 pts Criteria Ratings Pts This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Topic 1.0 pts Topic is clearly stated. 0.0 pts Topic is not clearly stated. 1.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Specific Issue 2.0 pts Specific issue is clearly stated. 0.0 pts Specific issue is not clearly stated. 2.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Aspect 1 4.0 pts Aspect is clearly stated and explained. 3.0 pts Aspect is clearly stated but explaination needs additional detail. 2.0 pts Aspect and explanation are not clearly stated and need refinement. 0.0 pts Aspect is not stated. 4.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Aspect 2 4.0 pts Aspect is clearly stated and explained. 3.0 pts Aspect is clearly stated but explaination needs additional detail. 2.0 pts Aspect and explanation are not clearly stated and need refinement. 0.0 pts Aspect is not stated. 4.0 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Aspect 3 4.0 pts Aspect is clearly stated and explained. 3.0 pts Aspect is clearly stated but explaination needs additional detail. 2.0 pts Aspect and explanation are not clearly stated and need refinement. 0.0 pts Aspect is not stated. 4.0 pts
Total Points: 15.0